All Illinois DCFS questions

Is withholding medication or emotional cruelty considered neglect?

Yes. These can be reported to DCFS and investigated as abuse or neglect, including as an injurious environment without physical abuse.

Yes. Withholding prescribed medication, skipping medical appointments and severe emotional cruelty can all be reported to DCFS and investigated as abuse or neglect — including as an injurious or harmful environment, with no physical abuse at all.

Giving a child someone else's prescription medication is also illegal, separate from any DCFS finding.

If a child is in immediate danger, call the police in that town and request a well-being check.

Important: This page is general information about Illinois DCFS procedures, not legal advice. Every case is different. If you can, speak with a qualified Illinois attorney about your specific situation.

DCFS Wants to Speak With Me in Illinois

A caseworker has called, visited, or asked to schedule an interview about your family.

Read the full guide